In Honor of Ralston

Ralston’s Story

After entering the hospital for what I thought to be appendicitis, the CAT scan showed nothing worn with the appendix but an irritation near the opening. Upon further examination they discovered a mass which turned out to be cancerous and it was removed along with 3 feet of colon and my gall bladder as well. I undergo chemotherapy for the next six months.

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I am coming upon my last treatment. Jan 11th will begin and the 13th will complete the Chemotherapy. The last few have been harder and more fatiguing. I have been experiencing very tender hands and feet. The skin is being eaten away on my callouses - which is good in some ways. The exception is my fingers which I use to play guitar have become quite raw. I have curtailed my playing and am anxiously awaiting my being able to get back to "normal" though I doubt I will ever fully know what that is again. Not that the symptoms will continue which I hope not, but just the journey this has been and the people I have met along the way. I don't think this experience allows you to remain passive. I have been changed profoundly by this journey through cancer. I hope to be able to relate what I have learned along the way. To listen to others stories more intently and with compassion. I am so thankful for those who have taken the time to share their stories with me. And the many who have helped to support me through my experience both emotionally and financially. I don't know how I would have made it with out the generous outpouring of too many to name. My gratitude exceeds my words. Thank you seems to be all that comes at the moment. I hope to find a more encompassing way to express it once my brain regains it's functionality fully.